Hampton, VA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Hampton, VA?
| Regulation | Details for Hampton, VA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 757-727-6111 |
10PM-7AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Hampton, VA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Hampton, VA?
Hampton, VA's noise ordinance, Chapter 22, prohibits various loud, disturbing, and unlawful noises. Generally, activities creating plainly audible noise are restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in residential areas, including social gatherings, sound-producing devices, and lawn care. Downtown amplified music has a 60 dBA limit. Penalties range from $500 to $2,500 for repeat offenses.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified; based on 'plainly audible' distance. | Not specified; based on 'plainly audible' distance. |
| Commercial | Not specified, but downtown amplified music has a 60 dBA limit. | Not specified, but downtown amplified music has a 60 dBA limit. |
Note: Amplified music/outdoor bands in downtown areas (DT-1, DT-2, DT-3) must not exceed 60 dBA upon another's real property. Other residential limits are based on sound being 'plainly audible' at specified distances rather than specific decibel levels.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Lawn care, leaf removal, gardening, tree maintenance, or other landscaping/timbering activities are prohibited if plainly audible in residential areas between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. The creation of any sound or noise from street cleaning and construction between 12:00 midnight and 6:00 a.m. that is plainly audible in residential areas is prohibited, except in certain commercial districts.
- Amplified Sound:
The use, operation, or playing of sound-producing/reproducing devices (radios, musical instruments, loudspeakers, etc.) is prohibited if plainly audible between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (i) inside another person's dwelling or (ii) 50 or more feet in residential areas.. Amplified music or outdoor bands in downtown areas (DT-1, DT-2, or DT-3) must not exceed 60 dBA upon the real property of another.. Amplified sound from vehicles is prohibited if plainly audible from outside the vehicle at 50 feet or more.
- Animals:
Noisy animals are prohibited. Violations can be enforced by a police officer or animal control officer. (Referenced in city code § 5-9 for noisy animals or birds).
- Vehicles:
It is unlawful for any person operating a vehicle with a gutted muffler, muffler cutout, straight exhaust, or an exhaust system not in good working order (violating Virginia Code §§ 46.2-1047 or 46.2-1049) to create a sound audible and discernible at a distance of 50 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hampton, VA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Hampton, VA?
10PM-7AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Hampton, VA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified; based on 'plainly audible' distance. during the day and Not specified; based on 'plainly audible' distance. at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Hampton, VA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Hampton, VA police non-emergency line at 757-727-6111. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 757-727-8311 (Customer Call Center / 311 if in Hampton), 757-727-6267 (Interim Property Maintenance Manager).